I stood sipping a glass of Arizona wine as the sun began to set at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, his winter retreat in Scottsdale, Arizona. From the vantage point known as “The Prow,” I took in Scottsdale’s cityscape with Camelback Mountain in the distance, the Sonoran Desert with its iconic Saguaro Cactus in the foreground.
Frank Lloyd Wright journeyed 26 miles from Phoenix, across the desert and up to the caprocktop of this mesa. He called it “the top of the world” and decided to build on this site. I could see why when I turned and viewed Taliesin West in all its glory. It was golden hour and the waning sunlight painted the buildings with hues of pink, orange, and gold. This was Wright’s vision and it was spectacular.
Taliesin West Was Frank Lloyd Wright’s Winter Retreat
Taliesin West was unlike Wright’s other commissions because it was his personal winter home and retreat. It also served as an architecture school. He designed the buildings to harmonize with the desert environment, integrating nature and architecture.
Wright used local materials such as quartzite desert rock and sand, as well as concrete, to create his vision. It was very personal to him and he continued to work on the site from 1937, with the help of his assistants, until he died in 1959.
What makes this property so special is Wright’s personal touch on every aspect of its creation. He even designed all the furniture. When I wandered through the property I could picture him deciding how to situate the buildings or how to create good acoustics for the Cabaret Theater.
I Experienced Taliesin West At Sunset
Just like Wright, I felt like I was on “the top of the world” taking in the views of the McDowell Mountains, desert, and the buildings of Taliesin West all in cohesive harmony. His use of green lawns and water features created an oasis in the midst of the desert.
I attended an event at Taliesin West for travel writers, catered by Cloth & Flame, which creates unique experiences at spectacular destinations. The whole event was elegant, from the sunset cocktail hour to the alfresco long table dinner.
The evening began with time to explore the property or take a building tour during the cocktail hour. As the sun set and the temperature cooled, our group sat down to a long table on the Sunset Terrace. I enjoyed three courses of a menu full of farm fresh produce in a mixed tomato salad accompanied by braised short rib and mesquite grilled salmon. Colorful vegetables perfectly complemented a desert meal. Los Milics Vineyards provided the wine pairings, which included Hannah’s 2022, a Marsanne and Malvasia Bianca blend, and Lorenzo’s 2020, a Tempranillo and Graciano blend. This estate winery is located about 45 minutes south of Tucson at a 5,000 foot elevation with a microclimate and unique southern Arizona terroir.
Here are my tips on how anyone can have a more exclusive experience at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
Sunsets And Sips At Taliesin West
If sipping wine at sunset is your thing, then plan a visit for Sunsets and Sips at Taliesin West.
Stroll through the grounds and outdoor spaces while enjoying a glass of wine, beer, or soda. The sunset views of the Sonoran Desert and Taliesin West bathed in golden-hour light make this an experience not to miss. Each ticket includes one beverage, with additional drinks available for purchase. The foundation offers the program is offered twice a month on Thursday evenings.
They do not include a tour of Taliesin West, but they make one or two indoor spaces available to visit each Thursday. This is the most popular event at this location, so make sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
Taliesin West Film Series
Movie nights were a tradition when Wright lived at Taliesin West. This special program shows classic Hollywood favorites in the Cabaret Theater. Concession items are available for purchase, and it is open seating. This is a rare opportunity for visitors to Taliesin West to experience the theater as it was designed to be used.
The Cabaret Theater was constructed partially underground. The natural stone and concrete walls give it a cave-like feel. Wright designed the space as a venue for the cultural arts and it is known for its excellent acoustics. During my tour our guide stood in the front of the room speaking in a normal voice and I could clearly hear her from the back of the room.
Note – The Taliesin West Film Series does not include a tour of the home.
Attend The Annual Taliesin West Fundraising Gala
The Annual Taliesin West Fundraising Gala takes place each winter and this is the event to attend if you want an over-the-top experience. This fundraiser benefits the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.
Pull out your fanciest dress and mingle with Scottsdale’s finest. Enjoy sunset cocktails while exploring Taliesin West, then sit down to fine dining at beautifully decorated tables on the Sunset Terrace. Finish the evening dancing under the stars. If this appeals to you, be prepared for the cost. Tickets for the 2023 gala were $500 per person.
Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Membership
A Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Membership offers a variety of benefits, including free audio and guided tours of Taliesin West as well as discounts on tickets for members guests and shopping discounts. Members also have access to special Members Only Programs. These vary throughout the year so check the website for current offerings. Most programs take place during the fall and winter due to the summer heat.
Membership levels and prices vary but the $500 Builder annual membership offers an exclusive event. This membership level includes four adults and offers a private tour of Taliesin West.
Self-Guided And Audio Tours of Taliesin West
Lastly, Taliesin West is open for both self guided audio tours and guided tours. Hours and days vary and in the summer months the property is only open in the mornings. It is a popular attraction so reservations are a must for an audio or guided tour. Tickets are limited and can be purchased online.
The author’s visit was hosted by Experience Scottsdale.
You might also enjoy:
- Cori Solomon’s article Visit Springfield and the Land of Lincoln includes Frank Lloyd Wright’s Dana Thomas House
- Scottsdale, Arizona for Fabulous Accommodations
Peggy Cleveland is a travel writer and author. Learn more Peggy, Where Should I Go.
